Stop Bullying: Speak Up

If you've been looking for a good way to start a conversation about bullying with your child, this Sunday, March 18th at 5:30 PM (ET/PT) Cartoon Network will premier the film, Stop Bullying: Speak Up. I'm so proud to tell you about this project because I've been working behind the scenes on its development. In addition, I'll be answering questions from parents and kids online at www.StopBullyingSpeakUp.com during and after the show.

President Obama will also give an opening statement to Stop Bullying: Speak up. Whatever your politics, it's so important that our children see our President speak out against bullying. I can truly say that when I heard Mr. Obama speak at the White House Conference on Bullying last March, it was clear that he cares deeply about this issue, not just as the President but as a father.

After the special, I hope you use the film as an on-going resource. To make that easier, Cartoon Network will post the special in its entirety on the website and you can see check it out on Xfinity, Facebook, iTunes and YouTube.com, for at least two weeks following the world premiere.

 

If you want to have a discussion with your child after you see the special, here are some questions to get you started.

 

Which children said things you agreed with? Why?

Which children said things you disagreed with? Why?

Do you agree with Matt Willhem's description of tattling or snitching and reporting?

Although it may not be easy, I also suggest paying particular attention to the section where the kids share experiences of telling their parents. It's always good to check in with your child to see how they feel about asking for help or telling you about a problem like bullying. Ask them if they have suggestions for how you can improve your reactions and make it easier for them to reach out to you. It's so important that our kids feel that they can share with us these difficult experiences and my sincere hope is that this film plays a small part in doing that.